Works planned at Alnwick Infirmary to result in four week closure of ward block

The essential works planned in August mean the inpatient ward will be temporarily relocated to Wansbeck General Hospital in Ashington, some 21 miles away

Alyson Raine, deputy director responsible for community hospitals at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, explained: “We’re planning to carry out essential works to the ward block at Alnwick Infirmary to upgrade the lift, power supply and air system to address ongoing issues and ensure the future continued smooth running of services.

“To enable the work to take pace, the inpatient ward will temporarily relocate to Wansbeck General Hospital for approximately four weeks starting in August at a date to be confirmed.”

Patients receiving chemotherapy and supportive treatment will also have to temporarily travel to appointments.

“Oncology services will continue throughout this period however will be provided at other sites,” said Alyson. “Face-to-face pre-assessment appointments will also be relocated.

“We will be informing any patients affected by these works and making arrangements should people have difficulty travelling.”

Visiting hospitals in Northumberland and North Tyneside is currently suspended except in exceptional circumstances to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Alyson said: “While visiting is currently suspended due to coronavirus, should the position change before the work is due to take place, we will communicate plans to help people visit loved ones during this time.

“As part of our commitment to continually improve the care we provide to our patients, we are also using this opportunity to move the physio gym upstairs to improve access for patient rehabilitation and enhance the environment for our patients by redecorating the ward.”

Ward 1 provides specialist rehabilitation and support for inpatients. The multi-disciplinary ward team cares for patients who may be recovering from an illness, operation, often following a spell in another hospital, and help them to recover, get back on their feet and gain confidence.

The purpose-built oncology unit is based in the former Coquet Ward and underwent a refurbishment costing more than £200,000 in 2014 to include the latest equipment and the best facilities for patients.

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